Method and system for biomechanical analysis of the posture of a cyclist and automatic customized manufacture of bicycle parts

ABSTRACT

A system for biomechanical analysis of user posture and automatic customized manufacture of bicycle parts includes a servo-assisted simulator having a handlebar, a saddle, pedal cranks, and actuators, a device detecting input data that includes a 3D scanner for automatically detecting the position of body segments of the user and the angular ranges therebetween and generating three-dimensional physical data units, an electronic platform detecting pressure data of the user, a pair of insoles detecting plantar pressure, a computer connected to the actuators and to the detection device, a memory unit storing optimized initial data and instantaneous data, software comparing the optimized initial data and the instantaneous data and generating final data of the characteristics of the main parts, a spatial representation device spatially representing the final data, and a device for immediate manufacture of the parts using 3D printers. A method of biomechanical analysis and custom manufacture of bicycle parts.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention finds application in the field of sportequipments, and particularly relates to a method of biomechanicalanalysis of the posture of a user, and of automatic custom manufactureof bicycle parts.

The invention further relates to a system for carrying out such method.

BACKGROUND ART

It has been long known to be used methods and systems for biomechanicalanalysis of the posture of a cyclist according to his physicalcharacteristics and the type of athletic or sports discipline he/sheintends to practice.

With these methods, a user may select the bicycle frame that is mostsuitable to his/her characteristics, for automatic customized design ofits parts, and may adjust the position of the saddle and the handlebarto optimize his/her posture during pedaling, in view of improving bothriding comfort and performances.

US2007/0142177 discloses a system for determining and adjustingstructural parameters of bicycles according to the posturalcharacteristics of a user.

This prior art system uses a bicycle placed on a roller stand and aplurality of light-emitting indicators, preferably of LED type, whichare designed to be placed on the body of the user and on the bicycleduring the pedaling action, as well as a camera-type detector forcapturing the light emitted by the indicators and to transmit it to acomputer. Thus, the detector may record the change of relative positionof the various light-emitting indication during exercise.

Software is installed in the computer for comparing the signals receivedby the detector with reference data stored in a database within thememory of the computer, to provide the optimized handlebar positionrelative to the ground, and to hence optimize the user's pedalingaction.

A first drawback of this prior art system is that, when the position ofcertain joints of the user's body is detected by light-emittingindicators, the skeletal system can be only roughly approximated, and asa result the calculated position will not be really the best positionfor user's performances.

This is because the detector is a standard camera, which generates videoframes to be later processed by the computer for generatinganthropometric data of the user. These video devices are poorlysensitive and only allow reconstruction of numeric data associated witha substantially two-dimensional image, whereby relatively highdimensional error margins are introduced.

A further drawback of this prior art arrangement is that thelight-emitting indicators shall be manually positioned by the operatoron a user's body, and this increases the risk that they may be locatedin an inappropriate position with respect to the corresponding joint,thereby reducing measuring accuracy.

Yet another drawback of this prior art system is that certainanthropometric measurements of the user are performed manually, and arethus exposed to frequent errors and approximations. Furthermore, theparameters of the bicycle cannot be adjusted in real time, as theoperator is required to stop angle detection to introduce angle valuesinto the computerized system.

Another serious drawback is that the physical characteristics that arerecorded at the start are only marginally considered for adjustment ofbicycle parameters.

US2012/0323351 discloses a method of making bicycles of a given modelwith optimized parameters for a given user. The method comprises a firststep in which certain physical characteristics of a user, including bodyweight and height, are acquired for pre-adjustment of the self-adaptivesimulator that will be used for the pedaling test.

During exercise on the simulator, the angles of inclination of thepelvis and the knee of the user are recorded manually and later enteredinto a computer for generating the optimal position of the saddle andhandlebar of a bicycle.

A further drawback of these known arrangements is that they allowoptimization of bicycle parameters using a limited number of physicalparameters of the user.

US2014/0379135 discloses a method and system for optical detection of abicycle simulator having certain characteristics in common with thepresent invention.

In light of the above described prior art, one of the technical problemsof the present invention may be deemed to be the need of providing amethod and a system for biomechanical analysis of the posture of a user,that allows detection, analysis and processing of a plurality ofphysical data units of the user in an accurate, combined manner, forsizing, representing and providing the parts of a user-customizedbicycle.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

The general object of the present invention is to obviate the abovedrawbacks by solving the aforementioned technical problem.

A particular object of the present invention is to provide a method anda system for biomechanical analysis of the posture of a user that arehighly efficient and relatively cost-effective.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a method and asystem that can provide biomechanical analysis of the posture in analmost completely automatic manner.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a method and asystem as mentioned hereinbefore that allow a user to adapt the parts ofa bicycle to his/her own physical and anthropometric characteristics,while accounting for the stresses exerted by these parts on the user'sbody.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a method and asystem of the above mentioned type that can reduce the overall times forbiomechanical analysis of a user's posture.

These and other objects, as better explained hereafter, are fulfilled bya method of biomechanical analysis of the posture of a user as definedin claim 1.

These objects are also fulfilled by a system for biomechanical analysisof the posture of a user as defined in claim 7.

Advantageous embodiments of the invention are obtained in accordancewith the dependent claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further features and advantages of the invention will be more apparentupon reading the detailed description of a preferred, non-exclusiveembodiment of a method and a system for biomechanical analysis of theposture of a user and manufacture of bicycle parts according to theinvention, which are described as a non-limiting example with the helpof the annexed drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a system for biomechanicalanalysis of the posture of a user according to the invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of the system of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 3A and 3B are a front perspective view and a rear perspective viewof a first detail of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view of a user in a standing positionin front of a second detail of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view of a user in a bent position infront of a second detail of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of a user in front of a seconddetail of the system of FIG. 1 during the pedaling action;

FIG. 7 is a top view of a fourth detail of the system of FIG. 2;

FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of a fifth detail of FIG. 2;

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a method of biomechanical analysis of theposture of a user according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Referring to the above mentioned figures, there is shown a system orapparatus for biomechanical analysis of the posture of a user U and formanufacture of the parts of a bicycle, generally designated by numeral1.

The system 1 of the invention is adapted to prepare the parts of abicycle and adapt their sizes to fit a user U such that he/she mayoptimize his/her pedaling efficiency.

The biomechanical analysis system 1 as described herein is designed tobe employed particularly but without limitation in specialized stores,sports centers, gyms, etc. for professionals.

In the embodiment as shown in the figures, the system 1 comprises aservo-assisted simulator 2 having a handlebar 3, a saddle 4 and a pairof pedal cranks 5, in addition to other details that are commonly foundin bicycles, exercise bikes or other pedal-operated machines.

The servo-assisted simulator 2 is fitted with actuators 6, as shown in

FIG. 2, for automatically adapting certain base parameters of the system1 and changing the position of the handlebar 3, the saddle 4 and thepedal cranks 5.

Particularly, these base parameters may consist of at least the verticalposition y of the handlebar 3 and the horizontal x and vertical y′positions of the saddle 4, for achieving the best position for the userU.

As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the simulator comprises a ground-supportedframe 7 having a substantially horizontal base 8 with a pair of verticalposts 9, 10 extending therefrom for supporting the saddle 4 and thehandlebar 3.

At least one first actuator 11 operating on the handlebar 3 for changingits vertical position y and at least one second 12 and one third 13actuators operating on the saddle 4 for adjusting its vertical y′ andhorizontal x positions respectively are fixed at the posts 9, 10.

The system 1 further comprises a computer 14 having interface means 15for entering personal D_(P) and historical D_(A) input data of the userU as well as the desired type of physical activity D_(S).

The computer 14 also comprises a memory unit 16 for storing optimizedinitial data D_(IN) and instantaneous data D_(IS) associated with theuser U.

Particularly, the optimized initial data D_(IN) includes the optimalangular ranges β_(REF) of the body segments B of a general user U athis/her joints.

Preferably, the optimal angular ranges β_(REF) can be retrieved fromstandard tables. For instance, a Caucasian male adult with no current orpast diseases who practices road bicycle racing these reference angleshave the following values:

-   -   Elbow angle: 170°;    -   Shoulder angle: 86°;    -   Lumbar spine angle: 140°;    -   Knee angle: 138°;    -   Ankle angle: 118°.

The interface means 15 may comprise an alphanumeric keyboard 17 and adigital display 18, possibly of touch screen type, for input and storageof certain personal D_(P) and historical D_(A) data of each user U.

The personal input data D_(P) may include identity data, such as thename and gender of the user U, whereas the historical data D_(A) mayinclude information about any diseases he/she may have (had), and/orhis/her current health conditions, such information being obviouslygiven with the authorization of the person concerned and subject toconfidentiality.

The operator may also use the interface means 15 to enter data D_(S)concerning the type of cycling discipline that the user U intends topractice with the bicycle, such as road, track or mountain bike cycling,as well as exercise cycling, or the discipline and the required skilllevel.

The computer 14 may also be connected to the actuators 6 of theservo-assisted simulator 2 and be operably connected also to detectionmeans 19 for acquiring anthropometric input data D_(L) of the user U.

Preferably, the detection means 19 comprise a 3D scanner 20, which isconnected to the computer and is adapted to automatically and directlydetect the shape and three-dimensional position of the body C of theuser U.

Preferably, as schematically shown in the diagram of FIG. 2, the scannermay comprise at least one RGB sensor 21 and at least one infrared IRsensor 22.

The combined operation of the RGB sensor 21 and the IR sensor 22 willcause the generation of anthropometric data D_(L) from the spaceanalyzed by the scanner 20 such that a highly-accurate digitalreconstruction may be made therefrom.

Particularly, the scanner 20 can automatically detect the position ofthe body segments B of the user U and the angles β therebetween, togenerate a plurality of three-dimensional physical data units D_(F) ofthe user U.

Furthermore, the scanner 20 may be equipped with processor means 23,which are designed to process the three-dimensional physical data D_(F)associated with the body C of the user U from the anthropometric dataD_(L) to thereby approximate the skeleton system of the user U by aplurality of body segments B joined together at the joints A.

These physical data units D_(F)are acquired with the user U in astationary standing position, as shown in FIG. 4, in a bent position, asshown in FIG. 5, or during a pedaling test on the simulator 2, as shownin FIG. 6.

The system also comprises a pressure sensor assembly 24 including anelectronic platform 25, as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 4 e 5, for detectingpressure data D_(w) associated with the feet F of the user U either in astationary standing position, as shown in FIG. 4 or in a belt position,as shown in FIG. 5.

For this purpose, the platform 25 incorporates a first set of sensors26, preferably an array of capacitive sensors for sensing the pressureexerted by the feet F of the user U when the latter is in a stationarystanding position or a forward bend position.

The assembly 24 further comprises a pair of insoles 27, as shown in FIG.7, to be introduced into the shoes S of the user U for detecting thepressure exerted by the latter in the plantar region during pedaling.

Preferably, each insole 27 may incorporate therein a second set ofsensors 28 for sensing the pressure exerted by the user in the plantarregion during pedaling and transmitting relevant pressure data to thecomputer 14.

The pressure sensor assembly 24 may comprise a third set of sensors 29associated with the handlebar 3 and the saddle 4 of the simulator 2 forsensing the pressure exerted by the user U at the hands M and thebuttocks G during pedaling.

Software SW may be installed on the computer 14 for processinghistorical data D_(A), physical data D_(F) and pressure data D_(W) assensed on the user U in stationary standing and bent positions, toselect corresponding optimal angular ranges β_(REF) from thosepreviously stored in the memory unit 16.

The selected initial optimized data D_(IN) may be thus compared with theinstantaneous data D_(IS) of the user U as detected by the 3D scanner 20during pedaling to generate final data D_(OUT) of the optimized shapeand position characteristics of the main parts of the bicycle.

Furthermore, the software SW may be adapted to process the final dataD_(OUT) using an appropriate algorithm A within the software SW torepresent the final data D_(OUT) by spatial representation means 30 andcontrol the actuation of the actuators 6 of the simulator 2.

Particularly, the computer 14 will be adapted to generate respectivecontrol signals S_(C), which may vary according to the final dataD_(OUT) to promote vertical displacement y of the handlebar 3 and/orvertical y′ and horizontal x displacements of the saddle 4 while theuser U is pedaling.

As shown in FIG. 8, the representation means 30 may be adapted tospatially represent the final data D_(OUT) in the form of a holographicimage O of the user U on the bicycle for any checking and/or correctionpurpose.

Preferably, the spatial representation means 30 may comprise a 3Dholographic projector 31.

The system 1 may further comprise instantaneous manufacturing means 32for instantaneously manufacturing optimized parts and/or means forselecting bicycle parts corresponding to previously manufacturedoptimized parts, in stock in warehouses or stored, not shown.

Preferably, the instantaneous manufacturing means 32 may comprise one ormore 3D printers, not shown and known per se, which are connected to thecomputer 14 and are adapted to process the final data D_(OUT) forreal-time spatial printing of an optimized part.

The block diagram of FIG. 9 schematically shows a method ofbiomechanical analysis of the posture of a user U, using at least allthe components of the above-described system.

The method includes a first step of a) determining a matrix of optimalangular ranges β_(REF) between body segments B of a general user U athis/her joints J.

The matrix of optimal angular ranges β_(REF) between the body segments Bof the user U may be constructed according to the cycling discipline andits difficulty level.

A second step is then carried out, i.e. b) collecting historical dataD_(A) of the user U and converting it into numeric strings for use by acomputer 14, followed by a third step of c) functional morphologicalanalysis of the user U by detection of the body segments B of the user Uby means of the scanner 20 to obtain corresponding anthropometric dataD_(L) associated with the user.

The morphological analysis step c) by the scanner 20 may also includeoptometric scanning of the perimeter of the feet F of the user U forautomatic detection of the main axes and lengths thereof.

A step is also included of d) analyzing any dysmetria or postural defectof the user U by detecting corresponding pressure data D_(w) at the feetF of the user U when the latter is in either standing or forward bendstationary position. Particularly, this analysis may include measurementof the sacral plane a in the forward bent position, according to theAdams' test.

Particularly, this analysis step d) may be carried out by placing theuser U on the capacitive platform 25 as described above and shown inFIGS.

4 and 5.

The method further includes a step of e) providing a computer 14 withsoftware SW installed therein for processing the optimal angular rangesβ_(REF) stored in the memory unit 16 thereof, the numeric strings ofhistorical data D_(A) and the pressure data D_(W) to determine initialdata D_(IN) associated with the user U and corresponding to the mainparts of the bicycle.

For instance, the initial data may be associated with the shapes andsizes of the handlebar 3 and the frame 7, or the type of saddle 4suitable for the user U.

The next step comprises f) providing a simulator 2 assisted by thecomputer 14, as described above, having sensors 29 in the saddle 4 andthe handlebar 3 and actuators 6 for automatically changing the optimizedthree- dimensional position of the saddle 4 and the handlebar 3according to the initial data D_(IN).

In the next step g) the user U gets onto the simulator 2 and undergoes adynamic test with a standard pedaling resistance to obtain instantaneousdata D_(IS), in addition to the detection of pressure data D_(W) and ofthe instantaneous angles β between body segments B by the scanner 20during pedaling.

The pressure data D_(W) may be sensed by the sensors 28 incorporated inthe insoles 27 within the shoes S worn by the user U during the dynamicpedaling test, as well as by the sensors 29 mounted to the handlebar 3and the saddle 4.

As the user U is pedaling, he/she may be assisted by instructions on adigital display mounted to the simulator 2 and not shown in the figures,to monitor the pedaling conditions and the position of the body segmentsB as detected by the 3S scanner 20.

Then, during step h), the instantaneous data D_(IS) is compared with theinitial data D_(IN) by the computer 14 to obtain the optimized finaldata D_(OUT) of the bicycle to be transmitted to the simulator 2.

Thus, the position of the saddle 4 and the handlebar 3 will beautomatically changed to fit the shape and the size of the frame 3 andthe pedal cranks 5.

In order to check proper positioning of the user U and make any finalcorrections, there is provided a step i) of holographic representationof the image O of the user U and the optimized configuration of thebicycle on the simulator 2 by a holographic projector 31 controlled bythe computer 14.

During this three-dimensional projection step i), the image O of theuser may be rotated and moved using any electronic pointer, possibly asensor or virtual pointer, which is not shown as being known per se, tocheck the optimal configuration from every side.

Finally, the method includes a step of j) transmitting the optimizedfinal data D_(OUT) to one or more 3D printers, not shown, to manufacturethe basic parts of the bicycle, such as the saddle, the handlebar, theframe and the pedal cranks.

An alternative thereto may be computerized selection of existing partsin stock in warehouses or stores, from predetermined databases.

The system and method as described above have proven that the time forbiomechanical analyses and preparation of the various parts of thecustomized bicycle is dramatically reduced from hours to a few minutes,indicatively about 20 minutes, which affords a considerable advantagefor operators.

The system and method of the invention are susceptible to a number ofchanges or variants, within the inventive concept disclosed in theannexed claims. All the details thereof may be replaced by othertechnically equivalent parts, and the materials may vary depending ondifferent needs, without departure from the scope of the invention.

While the system and method have been described with particularreference to the accompanying figures, the numerals referred to in thedisclosure and claims are only used for the sake of a betterintelligibility of the invention and shall not be intended to limit theclaimed scope in any manner.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method of biomechanical analysis of aposture of a user, and of automatic customized manufacture of bicycleparts, comprising the steps of: a) determining a matrix of optimalangular ranges (β_(REF)) between body segments (B) of a user (U) athis/her joints (J); b) collecting historical data (D_(A)) of the user(U) and converting the historical data into numeric strings; c)performing a functional morphological analysis of the user (U) bydetecting measurements of the body segments (B) of the user (U) with a3D scanner (20); d) analyzing dysmetria and postural defects of the user(U) using pressure data (D_(W)) detected in standing and bent positionsby a platform (25); e) providing a computer (14) with software (SW)installed therein for processing said optimal angular ranges (β_(REF)),said numeric strings of historical data (D_(A)), and said pressure data(D_(W)) to determine initial data (D_(IN)) concerning main parts of abicycle; f) providing pressure sensors (28) associated with insoles (27)designed to be inserted into shoes (S) of the user (U) and a pedalingsimulator (2) assisted by said computer (14), having additional pressuresensors (29) in saddle (4) and the handlebar (3) and actuators (6) forautomatically changing an optimized three-dimensional position of thesaddle (4) and the handlebar (3) according to said initial data(D_(IN)); g) detecting the pressure data (D_(W)) at a specific momentusing said sensors (28, 29) and current angles (β) of body segments (B)using said 3D scanner (20) during a dynamic test of the user (U) on saidsimulator (2) by setting a standard pedaling resistance thereon,according to the heartbeat rate, to obtain instantaneous data (D_(IS));h) comparing said instantaneous data (D_(IS)) with said initial data(D_(IN)) by said computer (14) to obtain optimized final data (D_(OUT))of the bicycle, to be transmitted to said simulator (2) for automaticadaptation of a position of the saddle (4) and for configuration ofshapes and sizes of frame (7) and pedal cranks (5); i) providing aholographic spatial representation of an image (O) of the user (U) onthe simulator (2) and an optimized configuration of the bicycle by a 3Dholographic projector (31) controlled by said computer (14), to checkproper positioning of the user (U) and make any corrections toconfiguration; and j) transmitting said optimized final data (D_(OUT))to one or more 3D printers for manufacture of the main parts of thebicycle using this three-dimensional technology or, alternatively, forcomputerized selection of existing parts in stock in warehouses andstores from databases.
 2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein saidmatrix of optimal angular ranges (β_(REF)) of a user (U) is determinedaccording to cycling discipline and difficulty level selected by theuser (U).
 3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein, before saidpedaling test, the user (U) undergoes an analysis of sacral planeinclination (α) in a forward bent position according to Adams' test. 4.The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein, during the functionalmorphological analysis step c), optometric scanning of perimeter of theuser's feet (F) is performed for automatic detection of main axes andmain dimensions thereof.
 5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein,during the dynamic test, the user (U) follows instructions on a digitaldisplay mounted to the simulator (2) to monitor pedaling conditions andposition of the body segments (B) as detected by said 3D scanner (20).6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein, during the step i) ofholographic projection of the user (U), the image (O) is rotated andmoved to check optimal configuration from every side.
 7. A system forbiomechanical analysis of a posture of a user (U) and for automaticcustomized manufacture of parts of a bicycle, for carrying out themethod as claimed in claim 1, comprising: a servo-assisted pedalingsimulator (2) having at least one handlebar (3), a saddle (4), a pair ofpedal cranks (5), and a plurality of actuators (6) for changing positionof the handlebar (3) and the saddle (4); a detection device (19)acquiring anthropometric input data (D_(L)) of a user (U), wherein saiddetection device (19) comprises: a 3D scanner (20) automaticallydetecting a position of body segments (B) of the user (U) and angles (β)therebetween, and generating a plurality of three-dimensional physicaldata units (D_(F)) of the user (U); a pressure sensor assembly (24)detecting pressure data (D_(W)) of the user (U); a computer (14)associated with said servo-assisted simulator (2), having an interface(15) and operably connected with said actuators (6) and said detectiondevice (19); a memory unit (16) associated with said computer (14) forstoring optimized initial data (D_(IN)) and instantaneous data (D_(IS))of the user (U); and software (SW) installed on said computer (14)comparing said optimized initial data (D_(IN)) and said instantaneousdata (D_(IS)) of the user (U) and generating final data (D_(OUT)) of anoptimized shape and position characteristics of main parts of a bicycleusing an algorithm (A) controlling actuation of said actuators (6);wherein said pressure sensor assembly (24) comprises: at last oneelectronic platform (25) detecting the pressure data (D_(W)) of the user(U) in a stationary standing or forward bent position, and at least onepair of insoles (27) designed to be inserted into shoes (S) of the user(U) for detecting a pressure exerted by the user (U) in a plantar regionduring pedaling, and wherein a spatial representation system (30) isprovided spatially representing said final data (D_(OUT)) as a 3Dhologram (O) of the user (U) during pedaling for checking and possiblycorrection purposes, a system for instantaneous manufacture (32) ofoptimized parts or for selection of previously manufactured parts, instock in warehouses or stores.
 8. The system as claimed in claim 7,wherein said platform (25) incorporates a first set of sensors (26),sensing the pressure exerted by feet (F) of the user (U) when the useris in a stationary standing or forward bent position.
 9. The system asclaimed in claim 7, wherein each insole (27) incorporates therein asecond set of sensors (28) sensing a pressure exerted by the user (U) ina plantar region during pedaling.
 10. The system as claimed in claim 7,wherein said handlebar (3) and said saddle (4) of the simulator (2)incorporate therein a third set of sensors (29) for sensing a pressureexerted by the user (U) at hands (M) and buttocks (G) during pedaling.11. The system as claimed in claim 7, wherein said 3D scanner (20)comprises a processor (23) processing a scanned image of the user (U)and determining shapes and positions of the body segments (B) of theuser, coupled at the user's joints (J), to measure the angles (β)therebetween.
 12. The system as claimed in claim 7, wherein said spatialrepresentation system (30) spatially representing said final data(D_(OUT)) comprise a 3D holographic projector (31).
 13. The system asclaimed in claim 7, wherein said system (32) for instantaneousmanufacture of said optimized parts comprise one or more 3D printers.